Friend witnesses boy get hit by car in Cambridge

CAMBRIDGE, Minn. - Funeral arrangements have been scheduled for a 13-year-old boy who was struck and killed by a car while riding his bike.

Colin Larson was crossing the street Thursday afternoon near Hillary Circle and 32th Avenue in Cambridge when a 16-year-old driver hit him.

Larson's friend was waiting outside of his house and witnessed the entire accident.

"His friend was waiting on the doorstep," said Bette Dean, Larson's aunt. "He doesn't remember the impact, but (he) tried to warn the car and Colin, but (he) couldn't stop it."

His aunt says Larson played the piano, the trumpet and soccer.

"He was an All-American kid. He had a great life here in this quiet neighborhood," she said.

It is unclear what exactly happened, but deputies say the driver, who is also from Cambridge, was heading west on 329th Avenue when Larson crossed. The driver stayed at the scene and is cooperating. The Isanti County Sheriff's Office is investigating.

"We want people to know we care about the driver and his family and the grief they have to bear," she said.

It is grief this entire town seems to share, including Larson's classmates.

"He was never in a bad mood. He was always happy. And he was really smart," said Emily Higley.

He was also active in his church, First Baptist in Cambridge. That's where pastors are inviting middle and high school students to come and grieve Saturday from 7 to 8 p.m. Larson's funeral is scheduled for Tuesday at the church at 4 p.m.

A memorial fund for Larson has been set up at Minnco Credit Union in Cambridge.

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